Color Logo for MeetAnOstoMate
Sponsored by Hollister
Login   |  
Forgot password?
 
Forum
Videos
Reviews
About Us
Color Logo for MeetAnOstoMate
Where Everybody Understands You
41,436 members
Jan 13, 2011

How to Prevent Ballooning Bags at Night

This topic is about finding ways to prevent a child's colostomy pouch from ballooning at night. Ballooning can be a concern because it might lead to the pouch over-inflating and possibly rupturing, especially when the child rolls over in their sleep. Here are some helpful tips and insights shared by others who have faced similar challenges:

1. **Positioning Aids**:
- Use a firm yet soft hug or body pillow to encourage the child to snuggle it, preventing them from rolling onto the pouch.
- Consider wedge-shaped foam or commercial "pillow pets" to help keep the child sleeping on their side.
- Create a DIY small U-shaped foam pillow that can be tucked under clothing or secured with elastic. This helps create a space for the pouch to hang freely, even if the child rolls forward.

2. **Reducing Gas Production**:
- Limit the intake of high-gas foods in the evening, such as certain vegetables, high-fiber items, and milk. It's a good idea to consult with a gastroenterologist or look up online lists for guidance.
- Consider enzyme supplements like Beano, but make sure to check with a physician first.

3. **Filter Work-Arounds**:
- Use filterless pouches with stick-on vent filters. You can experiment with the number of holes you prick in the pouch to find a balance between venting and odor control.
- During the day, cover the built-in filter with supplied stickers to stop odor, and remove the covers at night to allow venting.
- In the UK, extra filters and pouches are available for free on prescription, which allows for more frequent changes or special nighttime configurations.

4. **Frequent Pouch Changes**:
- Many users find that filters clog within 8 to 24 hours. Changing to a fresh pouch 1 to 3 times a day can help avoid ballooning and odor issues.

5. **Alternate Venting Setup for Prone Sleepers**:
- Attach a long plastic bag to the pouch outlet at night. This can be done using an adapter made from an open-ended pill bottle, allowing air to vent into the external bag.

6. **Stain and Odor Management**:
- Keep Tide laundry pens handy for quick cleanup of any clothing stains.
- Adding a few drops of eucalyptus oil in the pouch can help mask odors effectively.

7. **Mentioned Products and Brands**:
- Coloplast double-filter bags.
- Stick-on vent filters (no specific brand mentioned).
- Beano enzyme tablets.
- Tide laundry stain-removal pens.
- "Pillow Pets" children's cushion toys.
- Eucalyptus essential oil as an in-pouch deodorizer.

These suggestions aim to make nighttime more comfortable and worry-free for both the child and their caregivers.
See full discusison
Gray Logo for MeetAnOstoMate
MeetAnOstoMate.org

MeetAnOstoMate is a remarkable community of 41,436 members.

“Every morning with my coffee, I read here and feel wrapped in warmth - I hardly post, but it still feels like family.”

“Our oncologist literally wrote down the link; they said more patients need this website.”

“This place pulled me out of the dark. I went from lurking to living again.”

“At 3am, someone’s awake somewhere in the world. I’m never alone here.”

Join Free

Popular Topics

PUNCTUATION
Tip on New Product for Skin Irritation
Living life with complete abandon
MOTORCYCLE DREAMS
Stealth Belt
Talking to My Ostomy: Am I the Only One?
Wearing an Ostomy Belt at Night: Is It Necessary?
Stoma Surgery Bringing Confidence and a Fresh Start
Grateful
Discreet Bag Covers for Hot and Humid Climates

New Topics

B. Withers - Be Kind 103
Let’s see them
Hello to you who may read this.
Hey everyone
2 years
THE CRIMSON FINCH
Shiny Skin and Rash Issues with Ostomy Products
B. Withers - Be Kind 42
Nothing Too Gross, Just a Strange Experience After PET Scan
Rugby Player with an Ostomy Aiming for the World Cup
About us | Privacy policy | Terms of use | Ostomy Blogs | Ostomy Q&A | Guides | Contact Us
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and Google Privacy Policy and Google Terms of Service apply.
Copyright (c) MeetAnOstoMate.org All Rights Reserved
Create Account
Login
↑